Want to keep up on the latest things that are growing on at Farrand Farms? The man with the greenest thumb in Kansas City will help you with all his latest tips and share insight and info right here at Farrand's Notes. If you have some special questions or would like to suggest ideas for Keith to address just send him an email on the link under his picture.

Holiday Spirit

Keith
@
Monday, November 30, 2009

Now is the time to assemble the pieces to create the perfect Holiday setting for family and friends. The next several days are best to pot fragrant paperwhite Narcissis and the always beautiful and grand amaryllis. People of all ages just love to watch the amaryllis grow and show-off their giant sized blooms. They are available in many colors. To make the paperwhites and amaryllis even more fun, sprinkle some blue grass seed on the soil and create a very natural look.Don't forget other great holiday plants that add nice touch of color: Kalanchoe, Cyclamen are great for the dinner table or social gatherings. We have a nice selection of Christmas Cactus too!The color of our poinsettias is absolutely vibrant this season. We've grown over 17 varieties. Check out the long lasting 'Winter Rose' and 'Carousel' for something different and special. 'Burgandy' is also selling very well again.The new varieties of poinsettias are so easy to care for. When watering, just fill the pot to the rim. Although each home environment is slightly different, most poinsettias require water about once a week - just check to make sure they are moist. Fertilize once monthly. I'll bet you tell me in the Spring that they are still in bloom! And don't forget our great 'Tabletop' poinsettias - available in red, white and pink. They are just right for adding that 'extra' splash without overwhelming the table or your guests.Take time this season to enjoy times spent with those special to you. Economics have changed but our spirits don't have to!Please let me know if you have any questions and I'll do my best to help you with them. I also want to thank Michael and Elizabeth of 'The Kansas City Gardener' magazine for selecting me in their 'Professional's Corner' column.Happy Holidays! Keith

Holiday Cheer

Keith
@
Monday, November 16, 2009

Please forgive me for missing my last entry. We have been extra busy trying to finish our new and exciting perennial sales area. The warm weather has allowed us to nearly complete the most important parts. When you come out to see us over the Holidays, you'll notice the difference!There is no better time than now to view an absolutely beautiful presentation of poinsettias. We are growing 13,000 of them, reds, pinks, purples, oranges and whites - and they are nearly perfect this season.It is the right time to gather your family for this year's Christmas cards and e-mails. Feel free to come out anytime and don't forget your camera! A prettier color background cannot be found anywhere!Our fresh Christmas trees will be arriving this weekend. The wreathes and roping are fresh and natural. We've also got your other Christmas favorites as well: Christmas cactus, cyclamen, amaryllis and paperwhites.It's a great time to be in the greenhouse. We'll be open on Sundays after Thanksgiving. Our holiday hours are: Monday through Saturday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pmSunday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pmYou'll be glad you came!